1. Overview of Da Nang - Ly Son Tourism
When planning to explore Ly Son island, Da Nang is always the most convenient starting point for the Da Nang - Ly Son tourism journey. The city has Da Nang International Airport and a synchronized transportation system, making it easy for you to connect to the Central provinces. From Da Nang, you travel about 130 km by road to Sa Ky port (Quang Ngai), then take a 30-minute high-speed boat ride to reach the magnificent Ly Son island in the ocean.
The convenient geographical location helps Da Nang - Ly Son tourism attract a large number of tourists in 2026. Ly Son island is 15 nautical miles from the mainland, formed from ancient volcanic eruptions, creating unique geological highlights and impressive volcanic rock landscapes. This place is not only outstanding for its natural scenery but also deeply marked by history and culture, associated with the Hoang Sa fleet that has steadfastly protected Vietnam's sovereignty over the islands for generations.
The trend of Da Nang - Ly Son tourism is increasingly popular due to its pristine natural beauty, continuously upgraded transportation infrastructure, and tourism services that increasingly meet the needs of visitors.
Sunset scene at Ly Son island. (Source: Collected)
Ideal time to travel Da Nang - Ly Son
To plan a convenient and complete Da Nang - Ly Son trip, it is recommended to prioritize the period from June to September. During this season, the weather is sunny, the waves are calm, and the sea is tranquil, suitable for activities like swimming, snorkeling to see coral, and exploring the island by motorbike. The seawater is clear blue, with an average temperature of 26-30°C, making it convenient for you to fully experience the natural beauty.
Tourists experience scuba diving to see coral at Ly Son. (Source: Collected)
This is also the time when many special festivals take place on the island, especially the Khao Le The Linh Hoang Sa Festival in the 4th lunar month, corresponding to around May-June of the solar calendar. Attending the festival, you will immerse yourself in a solemn atmosphere, feeling the unique cultural characteristics of the local community here.
From around October to January of the following year, the weather in the Central region often has storms, and high-speed boats may stop operating when the sea is rough. If you plan to travel Da Nang - Ly Son during this time, pay attention to updating the weather forecast and prepare contingency plans to make your trip smoother.
3. How to travel from Da Nang to Ly Son quickly and most economically
3.1. Choosing land transport from Da Nang to Ly Son
From the center of Da Nang, tourists can choose to travel to Sa Ky port by motorbike or car. For those who love backpacking and want to experience the coastal road, a motorbike is an interesting choice. The rental cost is about 150,000 VND/vehicle/day. Tourists should check the vehicle carefully and fill up the gas tank before departing along the route Da Nang – National Highway 24B – Quang Ngai – Sa Ky Port.
If you want to travel faster and safer, you can choose a car, bus, taxi, or carpooling service. Thanks to the Da Nang – Quang Ngai expressway, the travel time is reduced to about 3 hours. Buses or shared cars cost an average of 200,000 – 300,000 VND/person, while taxis or private cars range from 2 – 3 million VND for a round trip, suitable for family or friend groups.
3.2. High-speed boat to Ly Son Island
High-speed boats from Sa Ky Port to Ly Son Island operate daily, with popular departure times from 7:30 AM to around 3:30 PM. Each trip lasts about 30 – 45 minutes depending on weather conditions. Tourists should arrive at the port at least 30 minutes early to complete boarding procedures, especially during peak tourist season when passenger numbers are high.
The reference ticket price for the Sa Ky – Ly Son route is about 203,000 VND/way/person, excluding any additional fees. The high-speed boats are modern, air-conditioned, with comfortable seats and wide sea views, allowing tourists to fully enjoy the beautiful scenery throughout the journey to the island.
High-speed boats make it more convenient for tourists to travel to Ly Son island. (Source: Collected)
3.3. Transportation within Ly Son
Upon arriving on Ly Son island, renting a motorbike is a popular choice for independent exploration. You can easily rent one at hotels, guesthouses, or places recommended by locals. Big Island has a circumference of about 10 km, and its flat roads are very suitable for motorbike travel.
You can follow a basic sightseeing route: from the center of Big Island (port area, market), travel to Thoi Loi Mountain, Hang Cau Cave, Hang Pagoda, the National Flagpole, and then continue to An Vinh Beach. To reach Small Island, you need to rent a canoe or wooden boat at the main port. Upon arrival, you can rent an electric car or walk to explore Small Island.
4. Notable Attractions When Traveling from Da Nang to Ly Son
4.1. Thoi Loi Mountain
Thoi Loi Mountain is a symbol of the Da Nang - Ly Son travel journey, bearing the majestic imprint of ancient volcanic eruptions that ceased activity millions of years ago. The highlight of Thoi Loi Mountain lies in its black basalt cliffs reaching out amidst the lush green expanse of the island. At the summit, there is a natural lake, which was once a volcanic crater, creating a poetic scene as if stepping out of fairy tales.
Thoi Loi Mountain bears the majestic imprint of a volcano. (Source: Dan Tri)
At the foot of the mountain, vast garlic fields stretch endlessly, each season dressing in a different hue: the fresh green of young garlic plants, the golden yellow of garlic dried on bamboo baskets during harvest time. This area is also a popular choice for tourists to capture memorable photos, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the sun casts warm rays upon the unique volcanic rock formations.
4.2. Cau Cave, Hang Pagoda
Cau Cave is considered one of the unique natural landscapes on the Da Nang - Ly Son tourist journey. The cave is located by the sea, formed by the erosion of sea waves over time, leaving a vast space with strangely shaped rock pillars and stalactites. When light filters through the rock crevices in the early morning, the scenery becomes even more sparkling, creating an unforgettable experience for visitors.
Hang Pagoda is located within Cau Cave, an ancient pagoda over 400 years old, associated with the first inhabitants of the island. The pagoda's architecture blends naturally with the cave, enhancing the sacred and peaceful atmosphere. Buddha statues are placed in natural rock niches, where the aroma of incense blends with the sound of the sea waves, bringing a sense of tranquility and relaxation.
4.3. Small Island
Small Island, also known as An Binh Island, is located 3 nautical miles northeast of Big Island. This is a must-visit destination on the Da Nang - Ly Son tourist journey. Although smaller in area, Small Island boasts fine white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters, standing out significantly compared to Big Island. The mural village on the island is painted by artists with many vivid paintings, reflecting the daily life of fishermen and the island's scenery.
You can reach Small Island by renting a speedboat at the main pier, the journey takes only about 20 minutes. During peak season, it is advisable to book a speedboat in advance to manage your schedule. On Small Island, you can rent an electric car for transportation, participate in snorkeling to see coral, fishing, or simply enjoy moments of relaxation on the pristine beach.
4.4. National Flagpole, Hoang Sa Flotilla Exhibition House
The National Flagpole on the northeastern tip of Ly Son Island, erected in 2009, has long been a sacred symbol of maritime sovereignty. The red flag with a yellow star flies between the deep blue sky and the vast sea, evoking national pride. Not only a famous check-in spot, this place also holds profound educational value, reminding every visitor of their love for their homeland and country.
The National Flag Tower stands majestically on Ly Son island. (Source: Tien Phong)
Nearby, the Hoang Sa Fleet Exhibition House preserves precious documents and artifacts related to the Hoang Sa fleet, the brave sailors who defended the sovereignty of the Hoang Sa and Truong Sa islands. Here, you will admire ancient maps, wooden boats, and many traditional fishing tools, thereby gaining a clearer understanding of the courageous spirit of Ly Son fishermen through the ages.
5. Culinary Experience and Ly Son Specialties
5.1. Ly Son Garlic
When mentioning Da Nang - Ly Son tourism, one cannot overlook the famous Ly Son garlic, renowned throughout the country. Unlike ordinary garlic, Ly Son garlic has only a single clove, its outer skin is a pale purple, the flesh is off-white, and it emits a very distinctive aroma. According to local residents, garlic grown on the island soil has high medicinal properties, helping to boost immunity and support health.
To buy authentic Ly Son garlic, you should visit long-standing garlic-growing families in the villages or the central market on a morning. The price of garlic ranges from about 200,000 VND/kg upwards, depending on quality and season. The peak harvest season is from May to July, which is also when the garlic is most fragrant and the price is reasonable for purchasing as gifts.
5.2. Fresh and Delicious Seafood
Thanks to its advantage as an island far from the mainland, seafood in Ly Son is always fresh and delicious, caught by fishermen and brought ashore daily. The night market on the island is a hub for many eateries with a bustling atmosphere, where you can enjoy dishes such as grilled sea urchin with scallion oil, steamed king crab with beer, grilled squid with satay sauce, or parrotfish grilled over fragrant charcoal.
Some recommended eateries whispered among tourists include Thanh Loi restaurant near the port, Muoi Ly restaurant in the An Vinh coastal area, or eateries around the central market. In particular, sea urchin is a dish only available at certain times of the year; if you visit during the right season, don't forget to try it.
6. Ly Son Accommodation Services and Tourist Facilities 2026
6.1. Suggested Outstanding Accommodation Services in Ly Son
Accommodation services on Ly Son island are increasingly diverse to meet the needs of Da Nang - Ly Son tourism. Homestays and family guesthouses are popular choices due to their reasonable prices. This type of accommodation creates a friendly and close feeling with the locals, and the hosts are often very enthusiastic about sharing their lives and culture on the island.
Additionally, you can opt for mini-hotels or small beachfront resorts with more modern amenities. Notable options include Muong Thanh Holiday Ly Son near the beach, Ly Son Homestay near the center, or Central Ly Son Hotel, which are highly rated by tourists for their services. During the peak season from June to September, it is advisable to book rooms 1-2 weeks in advance to secure good locations and prices.
Muong Thanh Hotel is modern on Ly Son island. (Source: Collected)
6.2. Convenient tourist services in Ly Son
Tourist services on the island are mainly provided by small businesses and households. Coral diving tours around the island and canoe rental services to Be island. For these types of activities, visitors should go in groups to save costs.
When choosing services, you need to clearly discuss prices, departure times, and accompanying benefits. It is advisable to save contact phone numbers as well as specific pick-up times and locations. Most services are paid in cash, very few places accept bank cards, so you should prepare enough cash before going to the island for convenience in all activities.
7. Da Nang - Ly Son 2D1N Tourist Itinerary
With the Da Nang - Ly Son 2-day 1-night tourist itinerary, you will have time to explore most of the highlights on the island. Early morning on the first day, depart from Da Nang at 6:00 AM, arrive at Sa Ky port and board the 10:00 AM ferry to Ly Son. Upon arrival around 10:30 AM, you check in and have lunch at a local eatery. The afternoon will be for visiting Thoi Loi Mountain, then visit Hang Cau and Hang Chua. In the evening, enjoy seafood at the night market, relax, and rest.
On the second day, after breakfast, you rent a canoe to Be island, visit the mural village, swim, and go snorkeling. At noon, return to the Big Island to visit the National Flagpole, the Hoang Sa Flotilla exhibition house. In the afternoon, take the opportunity to buy specialties at the central market, check out and board the ferry back to Sa Ky at 3:00 PM. Arrive in Da Nang around 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM.
If you want to combine exploring Sun World Ba Na Hills, you should dedicate a separate day to fully experience attractions like the Golden Bridge, French Village, and many exciting games.
The ideal time for beautiful photos is early morning from 6 AM - 8 AM or late afternoon from 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM, especially at Thoi Loi Mountain and the beaches on Be island when the light is soft and warm.
The shimmering Moon Castle at Sun World Ba Na Hills. (Source: Collected)
The Da Nang - Ly Son 2026 tour is a wonderful blend of pristine island and sea nature, upgraded tourism services, and proud Central Vietnamese cultural values. This is not just an occasion for relaxation but also opens up opportunities to connect with nature and discover the simple beauty of the island and coastal communities. Let's spread love for our homeland through responsible tourism, contributing to environmental protection and sharing meaningful experiences with the Vietnamese tourism community.
